Regal im schwedischen Supermarkt mit Tubenkäse, Kaviarcreme und Aufstrichen – typische Lebensmittel beim Einkaufen in Schweden

Shopping in Sweden

What you should definitely try in a Swedish supermarket

A visit to the supermarket is almost part of the holiday experience in Sweden. If you are shopping there for the first time, you will quickly notice that many products feel familiar – but some are typically Swedish and hard to find in Germany.

Between shelves of crispbread, packs of Swedish meatballs and fresh cinnamon buns, there is plenty to discover. Here, you will find out which supermarkets there are in Sweden, which foods you should definitely try and what matters when shopping.

Supermarkets in Sweden – the most important chains

There are several major supermarket chains in Sweden that you can find all across the country.

ICA – The best-known chain with many stores, ranging from small village shops to large supermarkets such as ICA Maxi.
Willys – Affordable discount supermarket with large package sizes and good prices.
Coop – Supermarket with a focus on organic products and sustainability.
Hemköp – Mid-sized supermarket with a good selection.
Lidl – Also present in Sweden and often competitively priced.

Tip: Many supermarkets offer apps or customer cards with discounts – especially at ICA or Coop this can be worthwhile.

Typical Swedish foods you should try

Köttbullar

The famous Swedish meatballs are part of the traditional cuisine and are usually served with mashed potatoes, cream sauce and lingonberries.

Crispbread

Crispbread is a true staple food in Sweden. One of the most well-known brands is

Wasa

There are many varieties – from thin and crispy to rustic rye crispbread.

Kalles Kaviar

A typical Swedish sandwich spread is

Kalles Kaviar

This cod roe cream is often eaten on crispbread with egg and is a common breakfast choice for many Swedes.

Fika – Cinnamon buns & sweet treats

The traditional Swedish coffee break, known as Fika, usually includes sweet classics such as:

Kanelbullar (cinnamon buns)
Chokladbollar (chocolate coconut balls)
Semlor (sweet buns filled with almond paste and whipped cream)

Surströmming

The most unusual food in Sweden is probably

Surströmming

Fermented herring with a very intense smell – a real challenge for many visitors.

Prices in Swedish supermarkets

Food in Sweden is usually a bit more expensive than in Germany. Typical prices may look roughly like this:

Milk (1 liter) – approx. €1.50–2
Bread – approx. €2–4
Cheese (1 kg) – approx. €10–15
Minced meat (1 kg) – approx. €11–14

However, many products are regionally produced and of high quality.

Buying alcohol in Sweden

In regular supermarkets you can only buy alcoholic drinks up to 3.5%. Stronger alcohol is only available at

Systembolaget

The state-run store for wine, spirits and stronger beer.

Conclusion

Shopping in Sweden is more than just a daily routine – it’s a small insight into Swedish culture. Typical foods include crispbread, Swedish meatballs, cinnamon buns and regional products that you can best enjoy directly in your holiday home.